WhatsApp To Introduce Enhanced Privacy Protection For Calls

Good news for WhatsApp users, the Meta-owned instant messaging app is reportedly developing a new privacy feature that protects the IP address in calls. This feature allows users to try an extra level of security when making voice and video calls, as WhatsApp makes it difficult for other people to get your IP address.

“This feature is still under development for the Android app, but thanks to the latest WhatsApp beta for iOS 23.20.1.73 update available on TestFlight, we found out that WhatsApp plans to introduce the same feature in an upcoming update to the iOS app,” WABetaInfo reported.

According to the report, the privacy settings screen has a new section that allows users to enable a more secure experience during voice and video calls. With the “Protect IP address on calls” option, the Meta-owned app makes it difficult for other people on the call to deduce your location and IP address, as calls from your device are securely routed through their servers.

Calls are still end-to-end encrypted when this option is enabled, but call quality may be reduced to provide additional protection. “It is important to note that this feature is completely optional and users can choose whether to enable it based on their personal preferences and security concerns,” the report states.

According to the report, this privacy feature is especially useful when calling unknown contacts or participating in conversations where you prioritize your privacy.

“By activating the call forwarding option, you add an extra level of anonymity to your communications, and we believe this is especially valuable when you’re interacting with people you haven’t previously established trust with,” it added.

However, the extra security comes at the cost of slower call quality, as the data must pass through WhatsApp’s servers for anonymization. A new privacy feature that protects the IP address in calls is under development and will be available in a future update of the app.